Saranda Catamaran VIP to Krorez and Kakome Beach with Lunch

A catamaran day like this makes Saranda feel bigger. You get a VIP-style ride, multiple deserted beaches, and a real lunch on board, not just snacks. I also like that the crew, including Mario (who helps run the galley), seems tuned in to making food and drink work for different needs.

Two things I’d pick this for right away: the long, scenic swimming stops (especially Krorëza and Kakome) and the way lunch can be adjusted for dietary limits. One thing to keep in mind, though: service can be a bit uneven with communication, and the meeting point experience can be a little chaotic if you arrive early and wait without a clear check-in.

Key highlights worth your attention

• Small group feel with a maximum of 29 travelers, so you can usually find a comfortable spot.
• True beach time, including 1 hour at Krorëza and 2 hours at Kakome Bay.
• Lunch that goes beyond basic, with options like seafood pasta, plus alternatives such as caprese for gluten-free needs.
• Shade strategy on board: the bean bag seats can fill fast, and the nets area lets you claim a spot more easily.
• Food details matter, including fresh fruit served after the first swim stop.
• Drinks are cash only, so plan ahead if you want soda, cocktails, or extra drinks.

Why this catamaran day works in Saranda

This is the kind of half-day plan that fits most people’s reality. You start in Saranda around 9:30 am, spend roughly 6 hours on the water, and end back where you began. Instead of doing one busy beach, you bounce between several quieter bays along the Ionian coast, each with its own personality and water color.

The “VIP” part here is less about fancy glassware and more about the practical stuff: you’re on a catamaran with sunbeds on board, and the schedule is built around swims and scenery, not constant sightseeing lectures. That matters because when the water is the star, you want your time to be spent where the views and swimming actually are.

Boarding and choosing your spot at Limion Port

You meet at Limion Port (VXCQ+WQG), Sarandë. You’ll receive a mobile ticket, and the tour runs in English. It’s also listed as near public transportation, which helps if you’re not staying right on the waterfront.

One small-but-real tip from experience on this route: on days when the boat is not full, you still want a smart plan. Some people end up on the bean bag chairs early and then realize they lost the best shade later. If you want a good combo of comfort and flexibility, aim for a seat near the bar area for later shade, then use the nets for relaxing when you want to be closer to the water.

Also keep your expectations realistic: this is a day on the sea, so dress for heat and sun, and bring whatever you need for swimming. The boat schedule gives you multiple swim opportunities, so you’ll likely change from dry clothes to wet gear at least a couple of times.

Stop 1: Krorëza Beach, a rocky-walled turquoise pause

Your first beach break is Krorëza Beach. It’s described as deserted and isolated by rocks on three sides, sitting just above Kakome Bay. That natural “rock room” feeling is part of why the water looks so tempting.

You get about 1 hour here, plus the stop time is long enough to do the basics well: swim, float, take photos, and then actually rest instead of rushing. With a place like Krorëza, the value is the simplicity. There isn’t a lineup of beach games or shops pulling you away from the water, so you can slow down.

A practical consideration: if you’re the type who needs lots of on-site amenities, this stop may feel calm to the point of being quiet. That’s the whole point, but it’s worth knowing before you go.

Stop 2: Kakome Beach in a secluded green bay

Next is Kakome Beach in Kakome Bay, one of those “you only find this because you’re on a boat” settings. The surroundings are beautiful and green, and the beach is completely deserted. Beyond a pier for jumping into the water, there’s not much to do. That turns it into a pure swim-and-relax stop.

You have about 2 hours here, which is the longest beach stretch of the day. That extra time matters. It lets you swim more than once, try different spots in the water, and still have time to dry off, eat, and cool down.

If you’re deciding between swim stops, this is the one most people remember because it’s built for lingering. The schedule gives you enough space to settle in, not just test the water and leave.

Lunch on board with Mario and smart meal options

Lunch is one of the biggest reasons this tour feels like a full day instead of an expensive ferry ride. It’s included, served on the boat, and it’s not just a token portion.

From the experience on this route, you can expect seafood pasta such as seafood linguini, plus fruit like watermelon and cantaloupe after an early swim. There’s also a mention of other menu items like kebabs in at least one account, so the boat seems to build a real lunch rather than a sandwich-only plan.

Now the part that makes a difference for real life: dietary flexibility. One person needed gluten-free, and the crew made a caprese salad instead of the pasta. Another guest didn’t drink alcohol, and the included wine was swapped for a non-alcoholic drink with no fuss. That’s the kind of competence you notice only when it’s missing on other tours.

You do not need to worry that the whole meal is only wine-based. Lunch comes with a drink, and the crew can adjust when needed, including coffee later in the afternoon (two coffees were requested without issue in one account).

Drinks and water: what to plan for

Here’s where you should stay practical. The tour lists drinks as not included, and drinks can be purchased at the bar, cash only. Also, water is a mixed topic in the accounts. One person says they didn’t get free water, while another says free water was included with their meal experience. To avoid stress, assume you may need to buy water and bring small cash if you want easy access to drinks.

Stop 3: Plazhi i Manastirit, Soldier’s Beach near Saranda

After Kakome, you continue to Plazhi i Manastirit, also known as Soldier’s Beach. This is a shorter stop at about 30 minutes. It’s described as a hidden-feeling bay along the Ionian coast near Saranda, with a mix of nature and history.

This is a photo-and-swim stop rather than a hang-out stop. You’ll want to get your quick swim in and spend a few minutes walking or just standing at the shoreline to take in the setting. If you’re hoping for a long beach stroll, you might find the time tight.

Still, the value is variety. After a longer day at deserted beaches, this short stop breaks the monotony with a different bay character.

Stop 4: Qefal Beach (Qender), golden sand and clear water

Your final water-and-coast moment is Qefal Beach, listed as Qender. You get about 30 minutes here too. The description is straightforward: crystal-clear water and golden sand stretching along the coast.

This stop is mainly about one thing: quick swimming and a last stretch of views before you head back. It’s also a good point to reset. If you’ve been in sun for hours, use this time to cool off, reapply sunscreen if you need it, and then enjoy the ride back.

The downside is obvious and worth saying plainly: two 30-minute stops are not long enough if you prefer slow beach time. If you want more beach hours, consider that Kakome and Krorëza are where you’ll feel the difference.

Timing and boat comfort, from shade to swim rhythm

The tour rhythm usually goes like this: ride to a beach, swim, eat or fruit, ride again, repeat. That’s why the timing feels good for many people. One account notes the day ran from about 10 am to 4 pm, which fits nicely into a trip schedule.

Boat comfort is also part of the story. One review calls the boat spacious and says it wasn’t full, which made it easier to find a spot. That’s important because a smaller group and more space can change the whole vibe from crowded to relaxed.

If you’re thinking about seating, remember the shade issue. People sunbathe hard at sea. If you end up on bean bags right away, you might learn the value of staying near the bar or planning your shade like it’s a resource.

Price and value at $106.92 per person

At $106.92 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to spend half a day around Saranda. But the cost is doing real work for you: you’re paying for a catamaran boat tour, multiple swim stops, included lunch, and the benefit of sunbeds on board.

If you were doing it alone, you’d likely spend on transport, boat rental or a charter, and you’d still need to plan meals. Here, the schedule is packaged. You also get the practical benefit of moving between bays efficiently, without having to organize separate plans for each beach.

So I see the value strongest if you want:

• a relaxed water day with beaches that are hard to reach by land
• included lunch that doesn’t feel like a basic afterthought
• enough swim time to actually enjoy it, not just dip your toes

The value weakens a bit if you want long beach exploration at every stop. The last two stops are short, and you can’t stretch time that’s built into the schedule.

Logistics and communication issues to watch for

This tour seems to run smoothly most of the time, but there are a couple practical notes.

First, meeting point clarity. One account describes waiting at the meeting point and having no one show up, then solving it by following other people to the port. If you’re going on a day with a lot of arrivals, it’s wise to arrive with a little extra time and stay ready to move if you don’t see staff soon.

Second, communication on the boat. One review says staff didn’t talk English and didn’t clearly explain what you’d be visiting. Another review says the crew was friendly and responsive. The lesson for you: don’t plan on a detailed script. Use the itinerary as your guide, and if you want specifics, ask directly and early.

Finally, drinks are cash only at the bar. That’s easy to fix, but it’s still a gotcha if you forget to bring some cash.

Who should book this Saranda Star VIP catamaran?

This tour fits best if you’re:

• in the mood for a laid-back day that centers on swimming and scenery
• happy with short stops and great water time, especially at Kakome and Krorëza
• looking for an included lunch that can handle dietary adjustments (caprese salad was mentioned as an alternative)

You might skip this one if you need:

• long beach stays at every stop
• a highly structured, detailed commentary experience in English

Also, this is a strong pick for couples, friends, and groups that want to relax together without the pressure of a loud party vibe.

Should you book the Saranda Star Catamaran VIP route?

If your idea of a perfect Saranda day is water, swimming, and a comfortable ride with lunch handled for you, I think this is an easy yes. The best parts are the two main beach stops (especially Kakome Bay) and the practical crew competence around lunch and food swaps, including Mario’s role in the operation.

My advice is simple: book if you want a relaxing, beach-focused half-day. Arrive ready for sun, plan for cash at the bar, and don’t expect a big “tour guide narration” at every stop. If you go in with that mindset, you’ll end up with the kind of day where the hardest decision is which clear-water spot to swim again from.

FAQ

How long is the Saranda catamaran tour?

It runs for about 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Limion Port (VXCQ+WQG), Sarandë, Albania.

What beaches are included in the itinerary?

You visit Krorëza Beach, Kakome Beach, Plazhi i Manastirit (Soldier’s Beach), and Qefal Beach (listed as Qender).

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included, served on board.

Are drinks included in the price?

No. Drinks are not included. You can buy drinks at the bar, and it is cash only.

What is the maximum group size?

The tour has a maximum of 29 travelers.

Do I need a printout or can I use a mobile ticket?

A mobile ticket is provided.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

Is the tour weather dependent?

Yes. The experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered another date or a full refund.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?

Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount is not refunded.